1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo vs. 1979 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 5,731 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (215 HP) has 80 more horse power than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 248 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo.
Because 1979 Ford Thunderbird is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1979 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1979 Ford Thunderbird (386 Nm) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo. (298 Nm). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo | 1979 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Monte Carlo | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3350 cc | 5731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 135 HP |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 386 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1813 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 5520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
